RTS personnel to learn basic signing techniques

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Regional Transit System has partnered with American Sign Language, or ASL, to provide information for the area’s hearing impaired.

The partnership will allow ASL to distribute information to those with hearing disabilities at the RTS Rosa Parks Downtown Station and to train RTS personnel in basic signing techniques.

“This is a unique partnership that will allow those with hearing problems to communicate more clearly with RTS personnel, while also giving our staff the opportunity to learn new skills and improve customer service with our hearing disadvantaged population,” said Chip Skinner, RTS spokesman.

This is the first such partnership between ASL and a public transit company in Florida, according to RTS.

“We hope that those we serve see the benefit and other transit agencies use our partnership to create ones of their own throughout the state and country,” said local ASL member Larry Clark.

ASL will be at the Rosa Parks Downtown Station, 700 SE 3rd St., from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays, barring any unforeseen conditions such as poor weather.

Visit the RTS website www.go-rts.com or call 352-334-2600 for general schedule information.